QUESTION: Are publishers shy of taking on unknown older writers in case they don't get enough future novels out of them to make it worth their while? If so, is it better not to state your age when submitting a manuscript to an agent or publisher? Gladys, haven’t you heard? A lady never tells her age. Seriously, age should not be a huge factor in whether an editor would consider your work, and I certainly would not disclose that in a query to a potential publisher. Of course, publishers do look for a long-term relationship with a new author, and that has more potential with a young author. But none of us knows how much time we have, so I would advise you not to be too concerned about your age and just keep writing. QUESTION: Although size of manuscript submissions may not be stated, are agents and publishers put off by manuscripts over 100,000 words - or even 80,000? They do take longer to edit (even if edited/proofread already) and cost more to print. The guidelines for word counts...